CZ5599A3 - Dry powder suction tube - Google Patents

Abstract

An inhaler having an inhaler body extending between two ends, an outlet at one of said two ends, a succion tube at the other of said two ends and an inhalation channel within the body providing fluid connection between the suction tube and the outlet, the suction tube being shaped and dimensioned for insertion into a blister containing powder such that the drawing of air through the inhaler body will draw powder from the blister through the suction tube and inhalation channel and out of the outlet, a channel inlet being provided in the suction tube and a cutter being provided around only part of the channel inlet to cut a film cover of a blister around only part of the channel inlet, at least one inlet passage extending between a passage inlet at a position along the length of the suction tube and a passage outlet adjacent the channel inlet to allow air into a blister and blister packs which are distinguishable according to their orientation and/or contents.

Description

(54) Title of the invention application:

Suction tube for feeding dry powder (57) Annotation:

The suction tube /S/ is intended for administering dry powder /9/ from a blister /8/ closed by a cover foil /14/. The suction tube /3/ is provided with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end, wherein the suction tube /3/ is provided at one end with an inlet section /19/ adapted for introduction into the blister /8/ containing a dose of powder /9/ containing a drug, and the outlet of the suction tube /S/ are interconnected by an inhalation channel /31/ through which the user can aspirate said powder /9/ during inhalation, wherein the inlet section /19/ is provided with a knife /20/ arranged around only a part of the circumference of the inlet of the suction tube /S/, so that the knife /20/ when introduced into the blister /8/ so that the cover foil /14/ forms a flap.

WITH

2028 29 23 32 18 • * ·»·«·*· ·· ··· ··· *»·.··«· · 9 •« · a «* · · · · · · ·

- 1 Z 03308/99-CZ

2. excluded application from PV 3251-98

Suction tube for feeding dry powder

Technical field

AND

The invention relates to a suction tube for administering dry powder from a blister sealed with a cover foil.

State of the art

It is known that certain drugs are manufactured in the form of a dry powder for inhalation, for example, to improve breathing conditions in asthma.

It is also known to store the individual doses separately in a tight card, generally called a blister card, which contains a series of molded bulges, each containing a dose of powder and sealed with a cover, for example a foil. The user must manually tear the foil off the blister or complex devices must be used to puncture the foil or the cup-shaped portion of the blister.

The task of finding the corner of the foil and tearing or peeling it off the blister without spilling the powder contained therein can be difficult for some patients, for example for young and elderly patients or patients currently suffering from an asthma attack. On the other hand, devices for automatic blister opening are complex and therefore expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, automatic devices do not ^pull the foil from the blister, but rather cut through the foil or the bowl part of the blister itself. In some cases, this creates the risk of releasing particles of the foil or the blister itself, which then become attached to the inhaled air. Furthermore, it has been found to be extremely difficult to cut through the foil or blister in a way that ensures that all or • * · ♦ 0 *

• 0 ♦ · • 00 00 at least a substantial portion of the powder contained therein.

US-A-2549303 describes an inhaler for administering a dry powder medicament. The inhaler comprises a cartridge with a chamber with a rupture wall in which the dry powder medicament is stored. The inhaler comprises a suction tube, one end of which is provided with a frustoconical extension for rupture of the rupture wall of the cartridge. The other end of the suction tube is adapted to be inserted into a breathing opening through which the user inhales.

Document WO-A-96/09085 describes a device for atomizing a drug in the form of a dry powder contained in a blister. The device comprises a dispersion chamber from which the atomized dry powder is inhaled by the user. It is a connecting tube, one end of which opens into the dispersion chamber and the other end of which is provided with a piercing device for rupturing the blister cover foil. The device further comprises a connecting tube through which the powder is removed from the blister, and at least one air channel through which fluidization air is introduced into the blister. The device further comprises a source of pressurized gas for supplying high-pressure gas to the connecting pipe, by means of which the powder from the blister is driven into the dispersion chamber. The connecting pipe is designed in such a way that the high-pressure gas carries the fluidization air through at least one air channel into the blister, where the powder present there is collected and driven through the connecting pipe into the dispersion chamber.

The object of the invention is to find an improved design of a suction tube for feeding dry powder from a blister closed with a cover foil.

·'··* · · * · 4 · 4 • * · 4 · ' 4 · 4 4 · · · 44* • 4 4, 4 · 4 · · 4

The essence of the invention from

The above-mentioned task is solved and the shortcomings of known solutions of this type are largely eliminated by a suction tube for administering dry powder from a blister closed by a cover foil, where this suction tube is provided with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end, the suction tube being provided at one end with an inlet section adapted for introduction into a blister containing a dose of powder containing a drug, and the outlet and inlet of the suction tube are interconnected by an inhalation channel through which the user can aspirate said powder during inhalation, the inlet section being provided with a knife arranged around only part of the circumference of the inlet of the suction tube, so that the knife cuts the cover foil of the blister when introduced into the blister so that a flap is formed from the cover foil.

It is advantageous if the cutting edge of the knife is arranged on the outer periphery of the inlet section of the suction tube, so that when the inlet section of the suction tube is inserted into the blister of the blister card, this knife first cuts through the blister cover foil and then the inner peripheral surface of the inlet section of the suction tube presses the flap formed from the cover foil into the blister.

Said knife preferably consists of a series of axially extending cutting blades, the cutting edges of which are separated from each other by axially extending gaps.

The inlet section of the suction tube is preferably provided with at least one inlet channel for communication between the blister of the blister card and the space above this blister when the inlet section of the suction tube is inserted into the blister.

One possible embodiment is that this at least one inlet channel is formed by an open channel in the outer circumference of the inlet section of the suction tube, one end of which is located at a location along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube and the other end is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube.

Said second end of the at least one feed channel may be arranged at the knife.

Another possibility is that this second end of the at least one feed channel is arranged at one of the gaps between the cutting edges.

Another possibility is that this second end of the at least one feed channel is arranged between adjacent gaps between the cutting edges.

Another possible embodiment is that said at least one inlet channel is formed by a channel inside the inlet section of the suction tube and its inlet is arranged at a location along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube, while its outlet is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube.

Also in this case it is possible that said outlet of at least one supply channel is arranged at the knife.

Another possibility is that said outlet of at least one supply channel is arranged at one of the gaps between the cutting edges.

Another further possibility is that said outlet of at least one supply channel is arranged between adjacent gaps between the cutting edges.

«

9 9

9 9 » >·9 999

The suction tube is preferably provided with at least one inlet opening for connection between the inhalation channel and the ambient atmosphere, through which additional air is sucked into the inhalation channel during inhalation by the user, thereby adjusting the powder concentration in the inhaled air.

The inlet section of the suction tube is preferably provided with a radially projecting arm at a defined axial distance from its distal end, which in the working position rests on the blister card and prevents the inlet section of the suction tube from being inserted too deeply into the blister of the blister card.

The invention also provides a suction tube for administering dry powder from a blister closed by a cover foil, wherein the suction tube is provided with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end, wherein the suction tube is provided with an inlet section at one end, adapted for introduction into a blister containing a dose of powder containing a drug, wherein the suction tube is provided with at least one inlet channel for connecting the blister with the space above the blister when the inlet section is inserted into the blister, and further with an inhalation channel through which the user can aspirate said powder during inhalation, wherein the suction tube is further provided with at least one further inlet opening for connection between the inhalation channel and the ambient atmosphere, through which additional air is sucked into the inhalation channel during inhalation by the user.

The inlet section of the suction tube is preferably provided with a knife with a cutting edge for cutting through the blister cover foil.

Said knife is preferably arranged around only a part of the circumference of the inlet of the suction tube and after inserting the inlet section of the suction tube into the • · 44 · 4 · 4 · 4 4 • 4 4 4 4 * · · ♦ ··· ··· • •44444 · 4

4 4 4 ·« 4·· 44 44

- 6 blisters this knife cuts through the blister cover foil so that the cover foil forms a flap that remains connected to the rest of the cover foil surface, thus preventing inhalation of cover foil particles.

The cutting edge of the knife is preferably arranged on the outer periphery of the inlet section of the suction tube, so that when the inlet section of the suction tube is inserted into the blister, this knife first cuts through the blister cover foil and then the inner peripheral surface of the inlet section of the suction tube presses the flap formed from the cover foil into the blister.

It is advantageous if the knife consists of a series of axially extending cutting blades, the cutting edges of which are separated from each other by axially extending gaps.

Said at least one inlet channel is in one possible embodiment formed by an open channel in the outer circumference of the inlet section of the suction tube, one end of which is located at a location along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube and the other end is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube.

It is advantageous if said second end of the at least one feed channel is arranged at the knife.

Another possibility is that said second end of the at least one feed channel is arranged at one of the gaps between the cutting edges.

Another further possibility is that said second end of at least one feed channel is arranged between adjacent gaps between the cutting edges.

In another possible embodiment of the suction tube, the at least

• · · · 9 « . * ·· · · · · · · · · · · · ·

- 7 one inlet channel formed by a channel inside the inlet section of the suction tube and its inlet is arranged at a location along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube, while its outlet is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube.

It is advantageous if said outlet of at least one feed channel is arranged at the knife.

Another possibility is that said outlet of at least one supply channel is arranged at one of the gaps between the cutting edges.

and

Another possibility is that the outlet of the at least one feed channel is arranged between adjacent gaps between the cutting edges.

Also advantageous is a design of the suction tube in which the inlet section of the suction tube is provided with a radially protruding arm at a defined axial distance from its distal end, which in the working position rests on the blister card and thus prevents the inlet section of the suction tube from being inserted too deeply into the blister of the blister card.

Due to the fact that the cutting blades extend axially in front of the remaining part of the end of the suction tube, it is achieved that the cutting blades cut through the cover foil before this cover foil is pushed away from the cover foil body towards the inside of the blister. The remaining part of the end of the suction tube comes into contact with the cut cover foil only at the end of the insertion of this suction tube, so that it only helps to push the foil flap into the inside of the blister.

By the design of the suction tube according to the invention, the powder can be reliably removed from the blister because an air inlet channel opens into the blister. This air inlet channel can be formed at the outer periphery of the blister, thereby helping to remove all the powder from the blister.

The design of the inhaler according to the invention also ensures that the suction tube is correctly inserted into the blister. Since the suction tube is guided into the blister during application, a higher consistency is achieved during subsequent use. In addition, the user feels more comfortable during use.

The support unit may include a storage section, such as a bowl; with a lid, attached by a hinge, in which the suction tube can be stored when not in use.

The inhaler is thus extremely user-friendly and the suction tube can be stored reliably in the carrying unit.

Also, the shape of the suction tube inlet and the guide elements of the carrier unit may be specific to a certain type of inhaler, so that the suction tube of one inhaler cannot be inserted into the guide elements of another inhaler.

It should be noted that the invention is applicable to blister cards with any number of blisters, including the case of only a single blister.

Any drug that can be administered by inhalation can be administered through the suction tube according to the invention. Suitable drugs may be, for example: I52-adrenoreceptor agonists, for example salbutamol, terbutaline, rimiterol, fenoterol, reproterol, adrenaline, pirbuterol, ·♦·· 4 · · · · * • · · ··· · ♦ · ··· ··· ««·· * · ·* ** «« ··· ·· ·

- 9 isoprenaline, orciprenaline, bitolterol, salmeterol, formoterol, clenbuterol, procaterol, broxaterol, picumeterol, TA-2005, mabuterol and the like and their pharmacologically useful esters and salts; anticholinergic bronchodilators, for example ipratropium bromide and the like; glucocorticosteroids, for example beclamethasone, fluticasone, budesonide, tipredane, dexamethasone, betamethasone, fluocinolone, triamcinolone acetonide, mometasone and the like and their pharmacologically useful esters and salts; antiallergic drugs, for example sodium cromoglycate and nedocromil sodium; expectorants; mucolytics; antihistamines; cyclooxygenase inhibitors; leukotriene synthesis inhibitors; leukotriene antagonists, phospholipase-A2 (PLA2) inhibitors, platelet aggregating factor (PAF) antagonists and asthma prophylactics; antiarrhythmic drugs, tranquilizers, cardiac glycosides, hormones, antihypertensive drugs, antidiabetic, antiparasitic and anticancerostatic drugs, sedatives and analgesic drugs, antibiotics, antirheumatic drugs, immunotherapeutic, antifungal and antihypotensive drugs, vaccines, antiviral drugs, proteins, polypeptides and peptides, for example peptide hormones and growth factors, polypeptide vaccines, enzymes, endorphins, lipoproteins and polypeptides affecting blood coagulation, vitamins and others, for example cell wall uptake biocators, antioxidants, free radical scavengers and organic salts of N,N'-diacetylcystine.

Overview of images in drawings

The essence of the invention is further explained by examples of its implementation, which are described on the basis of the attached drawings,

4 4

444 444

4 44

4 4 V 4 4 4

4444444 4 4

Í4 4* 444 44 44 • 44

- 10 which represent:

- Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an inhaler in a first embodiment according to the invention;

- Fig. 2 is a plan view of the support unit of the inhaler of Fig. 1;

- Fig. 3 is a front view of the support unit of the inhaler of Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 shows a side view of the support unit of the inhaler of Fig.

1;

- Figs. 5 and 6 show mutually perpendicular side views of the suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1, on an enlarged scale;

Fig. 7 is a horizontal section in plane I-I of Fig. 6 through the suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1, on an enlarged scale;

Fig. 8 is a top view of the upper, mouthpiece end of the suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1, on an enlarged scale;

- Fig. 9 is a bottom view of the lower end of the suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1, on an enlarged scale;

- Fig. 10 is a view of Fig. 9 on an enlarged scale;

- Fig. 11 is a vertical section in plane II-II of Fig. 6 through the suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1, on an enlarged scale;

Φ I ΦΦ · I

Φ * φ ΦΦΦ and

ΦΦΦΦ Φ ι ΦΦ Φφ «Φ ί Φ Φ φ φφφ φφφ φφφ

- Figure 12 is a vertical section in plane III-III of Figure 6 through the suction tube of the inhaler of Figure 1, on an enlarged scale;

Fig. 13 shows an enlarged vertical section in plane IV-IV of Fig. 1 through the inhaler of Fig. 1 using a blister plate, unit;

1, shown when stored in a carrier; FIG. 14 is an enlarged partial vertical section in plane IV-IV of FIG. 1 through the inhaler of FIG. 1, shown when using a blister plate, stored in a carrier unit;

FIG. 15 shows, on an enlarged scale, a partial vertical section in the plane VV of FIG. 1 through the inhaler of FIG. 1, shown using a blister plate stored in a carrier unit;

Fig. 16 is a partial plan view of the modified inhaler support unit of Fig. 1;

Fig. 17 is an enlarged bottom view of the lower end of the modified suction tube of the inhaler of Fig. 1;

Fig. 18 shows, on an enlarged scale, a partial vertical section in the plane VI-VI of Fig. 17 (and corresponding to the section in the plane IVIV of Fig. 1) through the suction tube unit of the inhaler of Fig. 10, using a blister plate, unit;

of Fig. 17 and the carrier 1, shown with the blister card for the inhaler of Fig. 1 stored in the carrier in Fig. 19;

in fig. 20 in fig. 20 in fig. 21 in fig. 21 in fig. 22 in fig. 22 in fig. 23 in fig. 23 in fig. 24 in fig. 24 in fig. 25 in fig. 25 in fig. 26 in fig. 26 in fig. 27 in fig. 27 in fig. 28 in fig. 28 in fig. 29 in fig. 29

φφφ • ··φ φ ·· • φ φ φ φ · perspective view of an inhaler in a second embodiment according to the invention;

a perspective view of the carrier unit for the inhaler of Fig. 20;

on an enlarged scale, a partial vertical section in the plane VIX-VII of Fig. 21 through the support unit of Fig. 21;

an enlarged partial plan view of the support unit of Fig. 21;

an enlarged partial plan view of the modified inhaler support unit of FIG. 20;

enlarged partial vertical section in the plane

VIII-VIII of Fig. 24 by the carrier unit of Fig. 24;

a plan view of a further modified blister card for the inhaler of Fig. 1;

an enlarged partial plan view of the blister card of Fig. 26;

enlarged partial vertical section in the plane

IX- 1X- of Fig. 27 · a modified carrier tray of the inhaler carrier unit of Fig. 1, shown with the blister card of Fig. 26 inserted; and a plan view of a further modified blister card for the inhaler of Fig. 1.

· • 0 00 0 • · · · · · 0 0*« 00

0 « 0 00 ♦ ··· 0 ·

0·0 «0

- 13 Examples of embodiments of the invention

Fig. 1 to 16 show a first embodiment of an inhaler according to the invention and its components.

The inhaler consists of a support unit V' for the blister card B and a suction 'tube S. The support unit V can be provided with a protective cover in a preferred embodiment.

The carrier unit V, in this embodiment a case, contains a blister card B shown in Fig. 19, which contains doses of powdered medicament 9, stored in respective blisters 8. The carrier unit V contains a matrix of holes 15, which form guide elements, the matrix of which corresponds to the matrix of blisters 8 in the blister card B. The carrier unit V may have a size similar to the size of a packet of paper tissues or a pack of cigarettes.

The suction tube S preferably has a length corresponding approximately to the length of the little finger of an adult hand. In use, its inlet section 19 is inserted into one of the through-holes 15 and pressed inwards to rupture the sealing cover foil 14' of the respective blister 8 located below the respective through-hole 15.

As will be described later, an inhalation channel 31 is formed in the suction tube S, which extends between the inlet section 19, which represents the inlet, and the outlet section 17, which represents the outlet, and may be designed as a mouthpiece. Thus, when the inlet section 19 is inserted into the blister 8, the user can inhale through the outlet section 17 through the inhalation channel 31. The powdered medicine 9 contained in the blister 8 is thus sucked through the suction tube S, with

which acts as a conduit for the inhaled drug 9. As is apparent, further inhaled doses of the powdered drug 9 can be obtained • · ·* 1 » • · * · · · · · · · • · » · ♦ · · *· «· ·· ·*· • 4» 44« • » ··

- 14 by gradually inserting the suction tube S into the through holes 15 above the previously unused blisters 8.

As shown, the support unit V is provided with a chamber 34 in which the suction tube S can be stored between uses. The chamber 34 is, as shown, closed by a lid 33 which can be pivoted between its open and closed positions on hinge pins 35. The parting gap of the housing 1 and the lid 33 runs obliquely in order to maximize the gripping surface of this lid 33. A number of gripping elements can be formed on the lid 33 on its protruding upper side for easier gripping by the hands. The parting gap runs preferably at an angle of 45° to the plane of the support unit V. However, other embodiments are of course also possible. For example, the suction tube S can be inserted axially into an opening in the side of the support unit 3. In all embodiments, it is also possible to use an elongated brush onto which the suction tube S is fitted. In this case, the stored suction tube Ξ is not only held in place but also cleaned at the same time by a brush that passes through its inhalation channel 31. Namely, the suction tube S is cleaned immediately before use when it is removed from the brush.

In order to prevent the suction tube S from separating from the support unit V and the loss of some of these parts, it is also possible in a preferred embodiment to use a connecting element, for example a cable, by which the suction tube S will be connected to the support unit V. A very fine and light cable should be used. This cable can in a particularly preferred embodiment be automatically retracted by a spring mechanism into the suction tube S or the support unit V. For example, the cable can be wound onto a roller and unwound against the action of a relatively fine elastic force.

The blister card B used in this embodiment of the inhaler preferably corresponds to the blister card B which is • · ·· * · ··

- 15 shown in Fig. 19. This blister card B consists of a generally flat, thin foil body 11 in which blisters 8 are formed in the shape of cups 10, each of which contains a powder 9 containing the drug. The foil body 11 is then covered with a thin cover foil 14 which encloses the powder 9 containing the drug in the cups 10 which form the blisters 8.

How already was unit In so, immediately under execution supporting

wall 6, against

As already mentioned, the blister card B is placed in a carrier unit V, which is provided with substantially flat surfaces, in which the individual blisters 8 are located. In the guide wall 6, through-holes 15 are formed, which form guide elements, through which the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is guided so that it cannot tilt relative to the carrier unit V. The passage openings 15 can be designed as housings that surround the blisters 8. In this embodiment, the underside of the guide wall 6 is provided with elongated ribs 6' which, as shown in FIG. 13, keep the blister card B ₍ at a distance from the underside of the guide wall 6. The elongated ribs 6' are arranged between adjacent rows of passage openings 15 and extend across the width of the support unit V. These elongated ribs 6' ensure the position of the blister card B relative to the guide wall 6 and the support tray 3, which will be sent later. By creating a space between the substantially flat side of the blister card B and the guide wall 6 in the areas of the passage openings 15, which is ensured by the elongated ribs 6', an unobstructed flow of air around and into the individual blisters 8 that are currently being used is enabled.

essentially equal side

The support unit V for the blister card B is in this embodiment preferably designed so that it is possible to exchange this blister card B when all its blisters are emptied.

·· ·

- 16 8. Various mechanisms can be used to insert and remove the blister card B into and from the carrier unit V, for example, using a hinged rear wall. However, in this embodiment of the carrier unit V, a retractable carrier tray 3 is used, which is inserted into and removed from one end of the carrier unit V and is itself preferably provided with rows of recesses 12 for engaging the blisters 8 on the blister card B, these recesses 12 being arranged in a matrix corresponding to the matrix of the blister card B, which can thus be placed on the removable carrier tray 3 and reliably positioned thereon, so that after the carrier tray 3 is inserted back into the carrier unit V, the blisters 8 are in correct alignment with the through holes 15; The depressions 12 for the blisters 8 correspond at least in their outer contour to these cups 10 forming the blisters 8 on the blister plate B, which, as shown, have a cylindrical shape in the region near the transition to the foil body 11. The depressions 12 form a crater structure which runs in intersecting rows and, together with the dividing walls 13, support the blister card B with their ends.

In this embodiment, the support bowl 3 is provided with a tab or handle 4, which protrudes through the

6.

As shown in the recess 5 formed in the guide wall, the recess 5 is formed without an overlap in the narrower edge region of the guide wall 6.

3 ^e

The support cup 3 is preferably provided with a latch for securing the support cup 3 in the inserted position. This latch may be formed by interlocking elements in the mutually opposite sides of the support cup 3 and the support unit V or may be part of the handle 4 so that the support cup 3 is released only if the user bends the handle 4 in some way.

To enable insertion of the support tray 3 into the support unit

V and its extraction from this support unit V, this support unit V, as shown, is provided with guides 7 which have a profile substantially in the shape of the letter C.

As will be described later and as best seen from the cross-sections of Figs. 11 and 12, the suction tube S has an elongated shape with an inlet section '19 at one end and an outlet section 17, which is designed as a mouthpiece, at the other end, the inlet and outlet of the suction tube S being interconnected by an inhalation channel 31. In this embodiment, the outlet section 17 of the suction tube S has a substantially oval cross-section, while the inlet section 19 has a substantially circular cross-section. As will be seen from the following description, this shape is not essential, but it brings a number of additional advantages. In particular, an outlet section 17 with a flattened oval cross-section is more pleasant in the mouth than an outlet section with a circular cross-section. Furthermore, if the inhalation channel 31 is shaped as shown so that in the direction from; As the inlet section 19 widens towards the outlet section 17, a higher air flow velocity can be achieved at its inlet, thereby improving not only the removal of the drug-containing powder 9 from the blister plate B, but also the deagglomeration of this drug-containing powder 9.

As shown, the outer shape of the suction tube S remains essentially oval despite the conical shape of the inhalation channel 31 along the length of this suction tube S, at least up to the collar 21. The cross-section actually changes only at this collar 21 at the inlet section 19, which is to be inserted into the through-opening 15 of the carrier unit. In the example of the blister card B. The flattenings on the oval cross-section make it easier for the user's fingers to grip the suction tube S. In order to maintain the oval cross-section, ribs 18 are provided in this embodiment along the length of the suction tube S. The use of ribs 18 allows the user to grip the suction tube S comfortably and reliably. This is particularly advantageous because the suction tube Ξ during its insertion into the • · ·

- 18 through-holes 15 in order to tear the covering foil 14' which closes the cup 10 of the respective blister 8, a certain force must be applied.

As shown, at the end of the row of ribs 18, in this embodiment, just behind the support collar 21, inlet openings 32 are formed into the inhalation channel 31. These inlet openings 32, which in this embodiment are arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the suction tube S, represent additional air inlets that allow additional air to be sucked into the inhalation channel 31, which mixes with the air-powder mixture 9 taken through the inhalation channel. The presence of these inlet openings 32 allows the user to inhale less drug-containing air.

Furthermore, the additional air, which mixes with the air flowing through the inhalation channel 31, causes flow turbulence and assists the air flow. This effect is. narrowing the inhalation channel 31. It is advantageous if the cross-section of these transversely oriented inlet openings 32 for additional air together approximately corresponds to the circular cross-section of the inhalation channel 31 in the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S.

from the bubble 8 additional air allows, concentrated mixture of powder 9, dispersion of powder 9 supported by the already mentioned

As already mentioned, the inlet openings 32 for additional air are arranged at the collar 21. This location of the inlet openings 32 for additional air is advantageous because when inserting the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S into the through-holes 15, it is extremely difficult for the user, due to the proximity of the guide wall 6, to unintentionally block the access of additional air to the inlet openings 32 with his fingers.

In this embodiment, as best seen in Figs. 11 and 12, • ·

- 19 * inlet section 19 of suction tube S is provided with a substantially annular blade 20. The inlet section 19 of suction tube S fits closely into the through-holes 15 by its shape, while allowing air to flow along and around its sides down into the ruptured blister 8. As shown in this embodiment, the cross-section of inlet section 19 of suction tube S is adapted to the shape of the through-hole 15 and may preferably be circular, so that good uninterrupted contact with the guide wall 6 is achieved. This results in a plug-in connection of inlet section 19 of suction tube Ξ with frictional contact with the through-holes 15.

As already described above, the collar 21 separates the inlet section 19 from the upper parts of the suction tube S. This collar 21 rests in the working position on the upper side of the guide wall 6 and thus prevents the suction tube S from tilting. The collar 21 simultaneously rests on the guide wall 6 in such a way that it ensures that the suction tube S is always inserted into the through holes 15 and the blisters 8 connected to them to the same depth. The length of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is of course chosen so that its end comes in the blister 8, i.e. in the bowl 10/ to a position that will be optimal for suctioning the powder 9 containing the drug.

The inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is in this embodiment provided with air inlet channels 29 which are formed in its outer circumference and extend in the axial direction along its length. As will be apparent from the further description and in particular as shown in Fig. 14, these inlet channels 29 allow air to pass from the space above the surface of the blister card B to the space below the torn cover foil 14'. In other words, with the suction tube S inserted, air is sucked into the blisters 8 or the trays 10 through the inlet channels 29 in order to achieve entrainment of the dose of powder 9 containing the drug. The resulting mixture of air with powder 9 containing the drug then flows upwards through the inhalation channel 31 and into the lungs of the user.

- 20 At the end of the inlet section 19, as shown, a knife 20 is provided which is provided with a series of cutting edges 28 which extend over a large part of its outer circumference. The cutting edges 28 are separated from each other by gaps 26. In the illustrated embodiment, in which a knife 20 with four segments is considered, four gaps 26 are thus provided which form three cutting edges 28 in the form of circular segments. The remaining fourth segment between the gaps 26 is not provided with a cutting edge 28. As shown in Figs. 5 and 15, the cutting edges 28 diverge towards the upper side of the blisters 8, while the segment of the knife 20 not provided with a cutting edge 28 narrows towards the distal end of the knife 20. The annular knife 20 can be generally inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the suction tube S so that the cutting edge 28 opposite the segment without a cutting edge 28 abuts the cover foil 14' of the respective blister 8 earlier than the other cutting edges 28.

As will be seen from the drawings, the cutting edges 28 of the knife 20, when the suction tube S is inserted into the through-holes 15, come into contact with the still intact cover foil 14'. When the suction tube 3 is pushed further into the through-holes 15, the cutting edges 28 begin to cut through this cover foil 14'. Of course, in the places of the gaps 26, the cover foil 14' as such will not be cut directly by the cutting edges 28. However, the size of the gaps 26 is such in relation to the size of the cutting edges 28 of the blister 8 that the cover foil 14' will easily tear between the cutting edges 28, so that a continuous cut will nevertheless be made in the cover foil 14'. As already mentioned, the cutting edges 28 of the knife 20 do not extend around the entire circumference of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S, but a segment is left in the knife 20, preferably in the range of about 90°, which does not cut the cover foil 14'. On the contrary, in this embodiment, this segment does not come into contact with the cover foil 14' before the cutting edges 28 cut this cover foil 14' and penetrate the space of the blister 8. These cutting edges 28 have ··* * ·

- 21 in the full thickness of the knife 20 only the edges are sharpened and are located on the outer edge of the wall of the knife 20. Thus, when pushing the inlet section 19 of the suction tube Ξ further into the blister 8, the knife 20 thus pushes away the cut cover foil 14'. The parts of the cover foil 14' that have not been cut act as hinges 27. In other words, connecting bridges are left between the released surfaces of the cover foil 14' and the edge of this cover foil 14', which act as hinges 27. When the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is fully inserted into the blister 8, the knife segment 20 without cutting edges 28 can also come into contact with the cover foil 14', but only to ensure that the cover foil 14' is pushed down into the bowl 10 of the blister 8, thereby ensuring that the inlet of the suction tube S, which is formed in the center of the annular knife 20, is open towards the interior of the blister 8.

It is advantageous if the cover foil 14' is cut so that the hinge 27 remains on the upper side when viewed in Fig. 1. This is advantageous because the carrier unit V is held in normal use, as shown in Fig. 1, with the blister card B inclined downwards from the distal end, so that the doses of powder '9 in the individual blisters 8 will be collected further from the hinge 27, thereby facilitating the suction of this powder 9.

It is evident from the above that the described design of the knife 20 and the suction tube S ensures that the cover foil 14' is always cut reliably and consistently, which also ensures that the cut cover foil 14' does not get into the air flow inhaled by the user, also thanks to the connection by the hinge 27. In addition, the air supply channels 29 in the outer circumference of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S cannot be blocked by the cover foil 14'. The air supply channels 29 in the side sides of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S ensure that air is effectively sucked into the blisters 8 under the cover foil 14'. The said air supply channels 29 simultaneously direct • · •and «»» · · ·

- 22 the air is sucked to the outer periphery of the blisters 8, or the trays 10, at several places, thereby ensuring that the powder 9 containing the medicine is exposed to the air flow throughout the entire space of the blisters 8. The gaps 26 between the cutting blades 28 on the other hand ensure that the resulting mixture of air with the powder 9 will always be able to flow past the cut cover foil 14' up into the inhalation channel 31.

In relation to Fig. 2 it should be noted that the through-holes 15 in the guide wall 6 are not designed as simple circular holes, but as through-holes 15 of circular shape with radial extensions 16, 16', 16'' . In fact, in horizontal rows, adjacent through-holes 15 share their radial extensions 16 with each other, i.e. are connected to each other by common extensions 16, in order to make the maximum possible use of the space available. The inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is provided with projections 23 and 24, which correspond to the radial extensions 16, 16', 16''. The mutually corresponding radial extensions 16, 16', 16'' and the projections 23, 24 increase the reliability of the suction tube S in the through-holes 15 and thus facilitate and make the use of the inhaler more pleasant.

The use of an asymmetrical arrangement of the radial extensions 16, 16', 16'' and the projections 23, 24 means that the suction tube S can only be inserted into the blister card holder unit V B with a certain predetermined orientation. The function of the inhaler is thus more consistent and pleasant. Furthermore, if the blister trays 10 8 have an asymmetrical shape, the asymmetrical arrangement of the radial extensions 16, 16', 16'' and the projections 23, 24 is also advantageous because it ensures that the suction tube S is always inserted with the correct orientation.

Regardless of the nature of the blisters 8, make sure that the suction tube

- 23 S is inserted into the respective through-hole 15 always with the same orientation, has the following advantage. The user can insert the suction tube S into the previously used blister 8 or bowl 10 only with the orientation as it was during this previous use. If the user were to insert the suction tube S inadvertently into the already used blister 8 or bowl 10 and insert it there in the opposite position to the original, the cut cover foil 14' could be completely released with the risk that the user could inhale it. This is prevented by the described asymmetrical arrangement of the radial extensions 16, 16', 16'' and the projections 23, 24.

As shown in Fig. 14, the projections 23 and 24 abut the upper side of the blister card B. In practice, this is done in such a way that the arm 22 abuts the blister card B, and the projections 23 and 24 are part of this arm 22. By abutting the projections 23 and 24, the blister card B is pressed against the upper side of the dividing wall 13, which surrounds the recess 12 for the blister 8 or the bowl 10. In this way, it is ensured that, regardless of the position of the collar 21 and the manufacturing tolerances, the suction tube S with the knife 20 cannot be inserted too deeply into the blister 8 or the bowl 10. This is particularly important because if the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S were inserted too deeply, the knife segment 20 without the cutting edge 28 could tear and completely separate the cover foil 14'.

Of course, it is also possible to use many other embodiments for ensuring the orientation of the suction tube S relative to the support unit V. One of these possibilities is shown in Fig. 16, where the through-hole 15 has a flattened side 37. This embodiment can replace the described radial extensions 16, 16' and 16'' and the projections 23, 24 in that it defines the mutual orientation of the suction tube S and the through-holes 15. It is advantageous if the flattened side 37 is located on the side opposite to the previously mentioned hinge 27.

- 24 which is parallel thereto, or on the side opposite to the knife segment 20 without cutting edge 28. In this way, a smooth and short cut is achieved, by which the flap in the form of a flap valve is released from the cover foil 14. This ensures that the mouth of the inhalation channel 31 in the front end of the suction tube S is reliably accessible. In addition, the powder 9 containing the drug is collected by gravity in front of the free end of the said flap formed from the cover foil 14'.

Fig. 17 shows a modified suction tube S for the inhaler of the first embodiment. The air supply channels 29 are not in this case formed by channels extending downwardly along the inlet section 19 and ending at the gaps 26 in the knife 20, but by closed channels in the walls of the inlet section 19 with outlets 29'' located at the cutting edges 28 between the gaps 26. The air is then sucked in through openings 29' on the sides of the inlet section 19. This variant has the advantage that the air flows into the blisters 8, or the cups 10, around the larger circumference of these blisters 8, or the cups 10.

Fig. 20 to 25 show a second embodiment of the inhaler according to the invention, or its components.

The inhaler essentially consists of a support unit G and a suction tube S. The suction tube S is of the same type as that already described in connection with the first embodiment of the inhaler. The support unit G consists of a guide wall 6, which corresponds to the guide wall 6 in the previous embodiments of the inhaler and is provided with sleeves 36, which define through-holes 15, which act as guide elements. The suction tube S cannot tilt when inserted into the sleeves 36. The support unit G can advantageously be made of plastic.

·««· · · * » » in • 4 4* 444 4 4 »

4 4 4 4 * 4 · > 444 44 • 444 44· 4 ·» 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 · ·4 44

44 4

In the first variant, which is shown in Fig. 21, the carrier unit G is an integral part of the blister card B. The guide wall 6 of the carrier unit G is attached to the cover foil 14, for example by gluing or heat welding to the cover foil 14 of the blister card B of the same type as has already been described in connection with the first embodiment of the inhaler.

In the second variant, the carrier unit G is adapted for use with other blister cards B of the same type as has already been described in connection with the first embodiment of the inhaler. However, if the carrier unit G is manufactured as a separate unit, it is provided with suitable means for detachably attaching the blister card B to its rear side and for holding this blister card . B in the correct position relative to this rear side. For example, three of the four corners of the carrier unit G may be provided with C-shaped flaps so that the blister card B can be pushed into position on the carrier unit G from the direction of the corner without such a flap.

Functionally, the support unit G in this embodiment is used in the same way as the support unit V described in connection with the first embodiment of the inhaler. Thus, the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S, which is provided with a knife 20, is inserted into the corresponding through-hole 15 so as to achieve a rupture of the foil 14', with the exception of the hinge 27.

Instead of the chamber 34 used in the support unit V in the previous embodiments, the support unit G may be provided with one or more clamps, for example flexible jaws, for attaching the suction tube S to this support unit G.

In the variant of the support unit G, as shown in Figs. 21 to 23, neither the nozzles 36 of the guide wall 6 nor the inlet • * * 0 ··· » ·

- 26 of the section 19 of the suction tube S are designed so as to ensure that the suction tube S can only be inserted into the corresponding nozzle 36 with a certain orientation. The nozzles 36 are therefore not provided with extensions in the illustrated embodiment. Accordingly, the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is similarly not provided with projections. However, it goes without saying that the nozzles 36 and the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S can be designed in this way. It is also possible to use other embodiments with extensions and projections or with a different shaping of the respective elements. In the preferred embodiment according to Figs. 24 and 25, which in this respect differ slightly from the embodiment of the modified support unit of Fig. 16, the through-holes 15 of the nozzles 36 are provided with a flat side 37 in order to ensure that the suction tube S is always inserted into the through-hole 15 with the same orientation.

In the support unit G according to Figs. 22 and 23 and Figs. 24 and 25, the nozzles 36 have the same cross-section as the upper part of the blister 8 or the bowl 10. Specifically, the blisters 8 or the bowl 10 of the support unit G in Figs. 24 and 25 have a flattened side 38 which is in alignment with the flattened side 37 of the nozzle 36. However, it is of course not necessary for the nozzle 36 to have the same shape as the blister 8 or the bowl 10. It is necessary for the parts of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S inserted into the blister 8 or the bowl 10 to cover essentially the entire surface of this blister 8 or the bowl 10, so that this blister 8 or the bowl 10 can be to suck up all the powder 9 containing the medicine present there. Of course, the other parts of the suction tube S may extend beyond the circumference of the blister 8 or the bowl 10. The shape and/or size of the nozzle 36 may be freely varied in this respect, or may be arbitrary. In addition, if the nozzles 36 are at least partly larger than the blisters 8 or the bowl 10, the arm 22 described in connection with the first embodiment of the inhaler may be formed on the suction tube S.

» · ·· · · · · · *·*···* ·· ·· .*··· »·* · ·* ·· »· »·· ··

- 27 In preferred embodiments of the inhaler, i.e. in the first and second embodiments described, the inlet sections 19 of the suction tubes S and the through-holes 15 in the guide walls 6 of the support units V, G are shaped in such a way as to ensure that the suction tube S can only be inserted into the respective through-hole 15 with a certain orientation. However, it is further advantageous if the suction tube Ξ is shaped according to the drug for which it is to be used. Although the basic solution of the suction tube S is suitable for all drugs, it is advantageous if the same suction tube S is not used for different types of drugs. Thus, in the case of a user to whom two or more drugs are to be administered in this way, shaping the suction tube S and the through-holes 15 according to the type of drug eliminates the possibility that the user inadvertently uses the same suction tube S for different drugs. The same applies to the shape of the through-holes 15 or the nozzles 36, the shape and/or dimensions of which may also be specific to a particular drug.

If the carrier unit G is glued to the blister card B, any shape of the guide elements, i.e. the through holes 15 or the nozzles 36, whether for distinguishing orientation, drugs or both, is inevitably bound to the given blister card B.

However, in the case of an inhaler, where the carrier units V, G are to be used repeatedly, i.e. the blister cards B are to be exchanged, it is then important that the user places the blister card B with respect to the carrier unit V, G always in the same orientation and/or uses these carrier units V, G only for blister cards B with the correct medication. According to the invention, a blister card B is therefore provided which not only contains a plurality of sealed blisters 8 or trays 10, but also means for distinguishing the orientation and/or content of this blister card B.

For electronically controlled inhalers, it is conceivable that the blister card B will be provided with some form of electronically readable information, for example in the form of magnetic or optical stripe coding. In order to create distinguishing features with a simple mechanical system, it is proposed that the blister card B will be provided with distinguishing features with special shapes, dimensions and positions, thereby distinguishing the orientation of the blister card B and/or the type of medication. In particular, the distinguishing features to achieve the correct orientation will be asymmetrical with respect to the rotation of the blister card B between its otherwise possible orientations when inserted into the carrier unit V, G.

Fig. 26 to 27 shows a blister card B which is provided with distinguishing elements for determining the orientation and/or the drug contained therein. This modified blister card B is provided in the foil body 11 in the intermediate areas 39 between the circular blisters 8 in the form of cups 10 with three openings 40 with a specific arrangement, which in the illustrated embodiment are still covered by the cover foil 14. The openings 40 are located with their centers in the corners of a square or rectangle. This modified embodiment of the blister card B is particularly suitable for the first embodiment of the inhaler, where the blister card B, before being inserted into the carrier unit V, rests on the carrier tray 3, which is then inserted into the carrier unit V. As shown in Fig. 28, the carrier tray 3 for accommodating such a blister card B is in this case provided with protrusions 41, which in their shapes, sizes and positions correspond to the openings 40 in the blister card B. In this way, when the blister card -B is placed on the carrier tray 3 with the correct orientation, when the blisters 8 or the trays 10 fit into the corresponding recesses 12 in the carrier tray 3, the protrusions 41 will fit into the openings 40. As is clear from Fig. 26, if the blister card B is placed on the carrier tray 3 with the opposite orientation, the protrusions 41 on the carrier tray will not 3 in alignment with holes 40 in blister card B, so that blister • φ φ · φ φφφ φ φ · φ φ φ φφ φφ

Φ ««V V V* V φ φ φ φφφφ φ φ φ φφφφ φφφ φφφ φ φ φ» φφφ φφ φφ

- 29 the card B will protrude from the support tray 3 and thus prevent the insertion of this support tray 3 into the support unit V. The asymmetrical arrangement of the holes 40 and the protrusions 41 ensures that the blister card B cannot be inserted into the support unit V with the wrong orientation. It should also be emphasized that by choosing different asymmetrical arrangements of the holes 40 and the protrusions 41 for different drugs, it is achieved that only the blister card B containing the correct drug can be placed on the support tray 3 and thus inserted into the support unit V. In the illustrated embodiment, it is apparent that there are twenty intermediate areas 39 in which the holes 40 can be formed, so that a large number of variations and combinations of these holes 40 are possible. Covering the holes 40 with the cover foil 14 is advantageous because the holes 40 are thus hidden from view.

The shape, position or size of the openings 40 in the blister card B can therefore also be used to distinguish between individual drugs. Thus, if the blister card 2 is used in conjunction with a carrier tray 3 which is provided with projections 41 corresponding to another drug, it will be

vesicular card 2 again stand and defend insertion supporting cups 3 to the carrier units V. Above described holes 40 and protrusions 41 edited vesicular

The cards B have a rhombic or square outline. However, various modifications are of course possible, for example the use of notches 40 which extend from the edge 42, as shown in the further modified blister card B in Fig. 27. The notches 40 shown are oriented so that they run in opposite directions to each other. The notches 40 run parallel to the shorter sides of the blister card B, which has the shape of an elongated rectangle. The length of the notches 40 is greater than half the length of the said shorter side. The notches 40 therefore overlap each other in the central region of the blister card B. The notches 40 are arranged equidistantly. The projections 41 corresponding to this

«φ φφφ φφφ • φ «φ ·Φ type of openings 40 have the corresponding shape of ribs or blades and protrude from the support cup 3 of the support unit V. As in other cases, the covering foil 14 can be cut or omitted at the location of the openings 40.

The blister card B may be further modified to include protrusions, such as additional small blisters at appropriate positions. For example, the protrusions may be formed by thermoforming, similar to the trays 10. In addition, the orientation of the blister card B and/or the type of medication may be distinguished by the shape and position of the blisters 8 or trays 10 themselves.

In the case of the carrier unit G in the second embodiment of the inhaler, used subsequently with further blister cards B, the protrusions and/or recesses can be formed on the upper, essentially flat * side of the blister card B covered by the cover foil 14 and on the opposite' side of the guide wall 6 of the carrier unit G. In the case of the embodiment of the carrier unit G with the aforementioned C-shaped flaps in opposite corners, it would also be possible to reduce the width of the carrier unit G and the blister card B in the direction from one end to the other, so that the blister card B can then be inserted into the carrier unit G only with the narrower end first, i.e. always with the same orientation.

Represents

Ing.J.Chluština

08.01.99 • · φ φ φφ · · · · · · · • φ · ♦ ♦ ♦ · · · ·♦· ··· .*«···· · · φφ φφ φφ ΦΦΦ φφ φ*

- 31 Z 03308/99-CZ

PATENT CLAIMS

Claims (4)

(83) 1. A suction tube (S) for administering dry powder (9) from a blister (8) closed by a cover foil (14'), characterized in that it consists of a suction tube (S) with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end, wherein the suction tube (S) is provided at one end with an inlet section (19) adapted for introduction into a blister (8) containing a dose of powder (9) containing a drug, and the outlet and inlet of the suction tube (S) are interconnected by an inhalation channel (31) through which the user can aspirate said powder (9) during inhalation, wherein the inlet section (19) is provided with a knife (20) arranged around only part of the circumference of the inlet of the suction tube (S), so that the knife (20) cuts the cover foil (14') of the blister (8) when introduced into the blister (8) so that from the cover foil (14') a valve is formed. (84) 2. Suction tube (S) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cutting edge of the knife (20) is arranged on the outer circumference of the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S), so that when the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S) is inserted into the blister (8) of the blister card (B), this knife (20) first cuts through the cover foil (14') of the blister (8) and then the inner .. . . the peripheral surface of the inlet section (19} of the suction tube (S) ' pushes the flap of the cover foil (14') into the blister (8). (85) 3. Suction tube (S) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the knife (20} consists of a series of axially extending cutting blades (28), the cutting edges of which are separated from each other by axially extending • 4 44 · · 4 4 4 4 • · 9 · · · · · · ··· ·····«·*« · 4 ·« *· »♦ »4 4 44 ·4 - 32 spaces (26). (86) Suction tube (Ξ) according to someone of claims 1 to 3, sign having with three m, that the input section (19) suction tube (S) is provided at least one inlet channel (29) for connection between blister (8) vesicular card (B) and the space above this blister (8) when the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S) is inserted into the blister (8). (87) The suction tube (S) according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least one inlet channel (29) is formed by an open channel in the outer circumference of the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S), one end of which is located at a location along the length of the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S) and the other end is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube (S). (88) 6. Suction tube (S) according to claim 5, characterized in that the second end of the at least one supply channel (29) is arranged at the knife (20). (89) 7. Suction tube (S) according to claim 5 or 6 at addictions to claim 3, in y from what for u j i c is being said three m, that the other (90) the end of at least one feed at one of the gaps (26) between the cutting channel of the blade (28 (29) ) - ίθ arranged 8. Suction tube (S) according to claim 5 or 6 at addictions to claim 3, in y from what for u j i c is being said three m, that the other the end of at least one feed channel (29) is arranged between adjacent gaps (26) between the cutting edges (28). (91) 9. (92) 10. (93) 11. (94) t*· ' ’ 12. (95) 13. • ϊ’»·’ · · · · · · · • · · · · 0 · 000 000 .0000 *·· · · • 0 00 0* 000 00 00 - 33 Suction tube (S) according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least one supply channel (29) is formed by a channel inside the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S) and its inlet (29') is arranged at a location along the length of the inlet section (19) of the suction tube (S), while its outlet (29'') is arranged at the inlet of the suction tube (S). Suction tube (Sj) according to claim 9, characterized in that the outlet (29'') of at least one supply channel (29) is arranged at the knife (20). Suction tube (S) according to claim 9 or 10 when dependent on claim 3, characterised in that the outlet (29'') of at least one inlet channel (29) is arranged at one of the gaps (26) between the cutting edges (28). Suction tube (Ξ) according to claim 9 or 10 when dependent on claim 3, characterized in that the outlet (29'') of at least one supply channel (29) is arranged between adjacent gaps (26) between the cutting edges (28). Suction tube (S) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the suction tube (S) is provided with at least one inlet opening (32) for connection between the inhalation channel (31) and the surrounding atmosphere, through which air is sucked into the inhalation channel (96) during inhalation by the user. 14. (31) adjective air. Suction tube (S) according to some of claims 1 to 13, in y sign u j i c i with that, that the input section (19) suction tube (S) is in defined axial distances from its distal end is provided with a radially protruding • « · · • · · · • · ·